New Bilingual Initiatives for Spanish-Speaking Patients

Recognizing that communication is key to establishing confidence and trust in one’s medical providers, Chesapeake Eye Care and Laser Center of Annapolis is launching a comprehensive series of initiatives designed to eliminate language barriers for Spanish-speaking patients.

Every point in the patient experience at Chesapeake Eye Care – from viewing the practice’s website, calling for an appointment and interacting with front-desk staff to filling out forms, reading instructions and talking with doctors and medical professionals – will have a Spanish language option. Bilingual doctors, technicians and staff communicate seamlessly with Spanish-speaking patients to help ensure open dialogue during examinations, treatments, pre-operative visits, surgical procedures and follow-up appointments.

Anne Arundel County Special Assistant for Latino and Immigrant Relations Maria Casasco hailed the rollout of the initiatives as “a true lifeline for Spanish-speaking residents.” Ms. Casasco, who is working to overcome obstacles for members of the Spanish-speaking community, cited programs like these are critical – especially in the healthcare arena. “This eliminates the need to rely on a relative or friend to accompany you to medical appointments or help translate instructions,” she said. “Being able to communicate in Spanish directly with the doctor offers a much higher level of comfort, privacy and independence – and those factors are priceless in our community.”

Dr. Miguel De Falco, a general eye care optometrist who joined Chesapeake Eye Care in 2017, is fluent in Spanish, Italian and English and has witnessed first-hand how the doctor-patient relationship is enhanced when language barriers are removed. “It’s gratifying to be able to establish an immediate connection with my patients. They know I understand their concerns and welcome the opportunity to answer any questions they have regarding their vision and eye health – not just in the language they prefer, but using terminology that isn’t full of medical jargon.”

Chesapeake Eye Care and Laser Center’s specialized doctors, surgeons and medical professionals provide a full range of vision care procedures as well as oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Located in Annapolis in the Sajak Pavilion on the campus of the Anne Arundel Medical Center, the practice’s reputation for quality and personal attention, and its ability to offer the latest procedures and leading-edge surgical techniques, has made it a top choice of patients and members of the medical community. Chesapeake Eye Care’s Medical Director and Founder Dr. Maria Scott is a member of the Anne Arundel Medical Center Foundation Board of Directors and is also a member of the prestigious Society for Excellence in Eyecare, an organization of eye care specialists personally selected and recognized for their leadership and innovation.